System, method, and apparatus for presenting media in a wagering game machine

ABSTRACT

System, methods and apparatus for presenting media in a wagering game machine are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving an internal media request from a component of the wagering game machine and receiving an external data signal from outside the wagering game machine. In the embodiment, the method also includes preparing media based on the internal media request and the external data signal and presenting the media on media presentation devices.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/590,681, filed Jul. 23, 2004, and of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/640,814, filed Dec. 30, 2004, thecontents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Field

This invention relates generally to the field of wagering game machinesand more particularly to the field of presenting media on wagering gamemachines.

COPYRIGHT

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever. The following notice applies to any software and dataas described below and in the drawings that form a part of thisdocument: Copyright 2005, WMS Gaming, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

A wide variety of computerized wagering game machines are now availableto gamers and casino operators. Computerized wagering game machinesrange from slot machines to games that are traditionally played live,such as poker, blackjack, roulette, etc. These computerized gamesprovide many benefits to game owners and gamblers, including increasedreliability over mechanical machines, greater game variety, improvedsound and animation, and lower overall production and management cost.

Computerized wagering game machines must be designed with many of thesame concerns as their mechanical and table game ancestors—they must befair, they should provide sufficient feedback to make the games fun, andthey must meet a variety of gaming regulations to ensure that both themachine owner and gamer are fairly treated. Further, to ensure successin a competitive gaming market, they should provide gaming experiencesthat are at least as attractive as those of older mechanical gamingmachines.

Many computerized wagering game machines can work with other wageringgame machines in a variety of ways, such as by clustering the machinestogether in competition for a single progressive jackpot. Theprogressive jackpot is typically larger than any single machine jackpot,and the progressive jackpot typically grows as more value is wagered onmachines in the progressive jackpot cluster. Additionally, computerizedwagering game machines can work with player tracking systems and playermessaging systems. For example, a player tracking system can track theplayer's time on device, amount wagered, and play frequency.Additionally, the player tracking system can relay messages to theplayer's machine.

Because wagering game machines typically work with other wagering gamemachines and systems (e.g., player tracking and messaging systems),there is a need for communication between the various machines/systems.For example, a casino messaging system may need to communicateinformation to players who are using wagering game machines.Establishing communications between the machines and systems can bedifficult, especially in environments where wagering game machines andsystems do not conform to the same communication protocols (e.g.,because they are from different manufactures). The communication isfurther complicated because the machines do not utilize the sameelectrical hardware, microprocessors, software or video displays.Reconfiguring machines and systems to conform to communication protocolsand hardware platforms can be extremely time consuming and expensive.Deployment of an interface system that does not require modifications tothe wagering game software would simplify player tracking and messagingsystems and avoid regulatory resubmissions.

SUMMARY

System, methods and apparatus for presenting media in a wagering gamemachine are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includesreceiving an internal media request from a component of the wageringgame machine and receiving an external data signal from outside thewagering game machine. In the embodiment, the method also includespreparing media based on the internal media request and the externaldata signal and presenting the media on media presentation devices.

In one embodiment, the system includes a gaming module to conduct awagering game and to select a first media content. In the embodiment,the system also includes an external signal receiver to receive a secondmedia content from a source outside the wagering game machine. In theembodiment, the system also includes a media switcher to receive thefirst media content and the second media content, the media switcher topresent the first media content and a second media content on one ormore media presentation devices.

In one embodiment, the apparatus includes means for receiving value andmeans for conducting a wagering game based on the value, the means forconducting a wagering game to transmit an internal media request,wherein the internal media request includes a first media content torepresent a state of the wagering game. In the embodiment, the apparatusalso includes means for receiving an external data signal from outsidethe apparatus, the external data signal including control data or asecond media content, wherein the control data includes instructions topresent local media content stored on the apparatus. In the embodiment,the apparatus also includes means for presenting the first mediacontent, second media content, and local media content on a mediapresentation device.

In one embodiment, a computerized wagering game system has a gamingmodule comprising a processor and gaming code which is operable whenexecuted on the processor to conduct a wagering game on which monetaryvalue can be wagered, and a display coupled to the gaming module andoperable to display information related to the wagering game. A videoswitcher is coupled between the video display and the gaming module, andis operable to receive an external video signal from a video sourceexternal to the wagering game system. The video switcher is furtheroperable to control presentation of the external video signal and thewagering game information on the display.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitedto the Figures of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a dataflow diagram illustrating data flow related to using amedia switcher for presenting media in a wagering game machine,according to embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wagering game machine, according toexemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a wagering game machine network,according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a wagering game machine includinga media switcher, according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating operations for conducting awagering game and transmitting wagering game media to a media switcher,according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating operations for presenting mediausing a media switcher, according to exemplary embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a presentation of internally andexternally derived media content, according to exemplary embodiments ofthe invention;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a wagering game machineconfigured for receiving external data signals from a clustercontroller, according to exemplary embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a wagering game machine includinga cluster interface module for receiving external data signals,according to exemplary embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 10 shows a computerized reel slot gaming system having a videoswitch, consistent with an example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a computerized wagering game having avideo switch, consistent with an example embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12 shows an progressive slot machine game display utilizing thevideo switch to display both gaming module video information andinformation from the external video input, consistent with an exampleembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example embodiment of a computerized wageringgame machine having a video switch coupled to a data interface andoperable to selectively display video from one or more inputs,consistent with an example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example embodiment of a computerized wageringgame machine having a video switch coupled to a video input module andoperable to selectively display video from one or more sources,consistent with an example embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description of sample embodiments of theinvention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form apart hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specificsample embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. Theseembodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilledin the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood thatother embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical,electrical, and other changes may be made without departing from thespirit or scope of the present invention. The following detaileddescription is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and thescope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims.

A system, method, and apparatus for presenting media in a wagering gamemachine are described herein. This description of the embodiments isdivided into five sections. This description of the embodiments is alsodivided into five sections. The first section describes an overview,while the second section describes an exemplary operating environmentand system architecture. The third section describes exemplaryoperations and the fourth section describes an exemplary implementation.The fifth section provides some general comments.

Overview

This section provides a broad overview of a system for presenting mediain a wagering game machine. In particular, this section describes usinga media switcher to present media in a wagering game machine, accordingto exemplary embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a dataflow diagram illustrating data flow related to using amedia switcher for presenting media in a wagering game machine,according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 1,a wagering game machine 102 includes a media switcher 104 for presentingmedia in a wagering game. The media switcher 104 can include hardware,software, and/or other logic for presenting media, as described below.

The data flow of FIG. 1 is divided into two stages. During stage 1, themedia switcher 104 receives an internal media request 106 and anexternal media request 108. The media switcher 104 receives the internalmedia request 106 from a component (not shown) inside the wagering gamemachine 102, whereas it receives the external media request 108 fromoutside the wagering game machine 102.

The media requests 106 and 108 can include data, audio signals, videosignals, or other signals which the media switcher 104 can present onthe wagering game machine's media presentation devices (not shown).Alternatively, data included in the requests 106 and 108 can prompt themedia switcher 104 to present one or more predetermined media sequences,where the predetermined media sequences are stored on the gaming machine102.

At stage two, the media switcher 104 presents internally requested media110 and externally requested media 112. The internally requested media110 is based on the internal media request 106, while the externallyrequested media 112 is based on the external media request 108. Thepresentations 110 and 112 can include renderings of audio and/or videosignals included in the requests 106 and 108. Alternatively, thepresentations can include locally stored predetermined media content,such as locally stored prerecorded movie clips, preprogrammed animationsequences, prerecorded music, etc.

As shown in FIG. 1, the media switcher 104 can receive the requests 106and 108 in parallel, and it can also perform the media presentations 110and 112 in parallel. While this overview describes operations performedby certain embodiments of the invention, other embodiments performadditional operations, as described in greater detail below.

Hardware, Operating Environment, and System Architecture

This section provides an overview of some exemplary hardware and anoperating environment in which embodiments of the invention can bepracticed. This section also describes an exemplary system architecturefor presenting media in a wagering game machine. Operations of thesystem components will be described in the next section.

Exemplary Hardware and Operating Environment

The wagering game machines described below can employ any of the mediapresentation techniques described herein. Before discussing detailsrelated to presenting media in a wagering game machine, this sectionwill describe some general features of wagering game machines.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wagering game machine, according toexemplary embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the wageringgame machine 200 can be a computerized slot machine having the controls,displays, and features of a conventional slot machine.

The wagering game machine 200 can be operated while players are standingor seated. Additionally, the wagering game machine 200 is preferablymounted on a stand (not shown). However, it should be appreciated thatthe wagering game machine 200 can be constructed as a pub-style tabletopgame (not shown), which a player can operate while sitting. Furthermore,the wagering game machine 200 can be constructed with varying cabinetand display designs. The wagering game machine 200 can incorporate anyprimary game such as slots, poker, or keno, and additional bonus roundgames. The symbols and indicia used on and in the wagering game machine200 can take mechanical, electrical, or video form.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the wagering game machine 200 includes a coinslot 202 and bill acceptor 224. Players can place coins in the coin slot202 and paper money or ticket vouchers in the bill acceptor 224. Otherdevices can be used for accepting payment. For example, credit/debitcard readers/validators can be used for accepting payment. Additionally,the wagering game machine 200 can perform electronic funds transfers andfinancial transfers to procure monies from financial accounts. When aplayer inserts money in the wagering game machine 200, a number ofcredits corresponding to the amount deposited are shown in a creditdisplay 206. After depositing the appropriate amount of money, a playercan begin playing the game by pushing play button 208. The play button208 can be any play activator used for starting a wagering game orsequence of events in the wagering game machine 200.

As shown in FIG. 2, the wagering game machine 200 also includes a betdisplay 212 and a “bet one” button 216. The player places a bet bypushing the bet one button 216. The player can increase the bet by onecredit each time the player pushes the bet one button 216. When theplayer pushes the bet one button 216, the number of credits shown in thecredit display 206 decreases by one credit, while the number of creditsshown in the bet display 212 increases by one credit.

A player may “cash out” by pressing a cash out button 218. When a playercashes out, the wagering game machine 200 dispenses a voucher orcurrency corresponding to the number of remaining credits. The wageringgame machine 200 may employ other payout mechanisms such as credit slips(which are redeemable by a cashier) or electronically recordable cards(which track player credits), or electronic funds transfer.

The wagering game machine also includes a primary display unit 204 and asecondary display unit 210 (also known as a “top box”). The wageringgame machine may also include an auxiliary video display 230. In oneembodiment, the primary display unit 204 displays a plurality of videoreels 220. According to embodiments of the invention, the display units204 and 210 can include any visual representation or exhibition,including moving physical objects (e.g., mechanical reels and wheels),dynamic lighting, and video images. In one embodiment, each reel 220includes a plurality of symbols such as bells, hearts, fruits, numbers,letters, bars or other images, which correspond to a theme associatedwith the wagering game machine 200. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, thewagering game machine 200 includes a audio presentation unit 228. Theaudio presentation unit 228 can include audio speakers or other suitablesound projection devices.

In one embodiment, a plurality of wagering game machines can beconnected together with other gaming systems to form a gaming network.In one embodiment, the wagering game machine presents media based ondata signals received from other network nodes.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary wagering game network, inaccordance with embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 3, awagering game network 300 includes a plurality of wagering game machines302 and a plurality of cluster controllers 308. These components of thewagering game network 300 can communicate over wired connections 310and/or wireless connections 312. The wagering game machines 302 can beconnected to the wagering game network 300 using any suitable connectiontechnology, such as Bluetooth, 802.11x, Ethernet, etc.

The cluster controllers 308 can be used for monitoring the wagering gamemachines 302 or controlling game machine related systems, such aswide-area progressive games, player tracking systems, and casinomessaging systems. In some embodiments, the wagering game machines 302can be part of a wide-area progressive game. In certain embodiments, thecluster controller 308 can accumulate and distribute progressivejackpots, while the wagering game machines 302 can determine whetherplayers have won the progressive jackpots. Because progressive jackpotssteadily increase as more wagers are placed, displaying progressivejackpots can attract players to the wagering game machines 302.According to embodiments, the wagering game machines 302 can receiveupdated jackpot amounts from the cluster controller 308 and present thejackpot amounts on display devices, as described below.

In some embodiments, the gaming network 300 includes a player trackingsystem. Player tracking systems typically obtain information aboutplayer demographics and playing habits. Player tracking systemstypically use player tracking devices (not shown) to assist in acquiringthe player information. The player tracking devices can be magneticcards, flash memory devices, smart cards, or any portable devicesuitable for storing player information. At the beginning of a gamingsession, players typically provide player information by insertingplayer tracking devices into the wagering game machines 302. The playertracking device may provide a player's name, age, gender, address, zipcode, account number, etc. During the gaming session, the clustercontroller 308 may record the time of day, duration of play, wageramounts, number of games played, and other information about a player'splaying habits. Casinos can use the player tracking information toreward players and for marketing goods and services to specific players.

Player tracking systems typically present text messages on auxiliaryvideo displays 230, which are added to the wagering game machines 302.The auxiliary displays can be 20 character scrolling text displays orminiature liquid crystal displays. The text messages can include productpromotions and other marking content.

The player tracking systems can also work with casino messaging systemsto facilitate delivery of text messages to players at the wagering gamemachines 302. In particular, casino messaging systems can be used forpresenting “harm minimization” or “responsible gaming” messages. Suchmessages may suggest player rest periods or notify players about amountswagered or lost. In some gaming jurisdictions, authorities requirecasino messaging systems to present responsible gaming messages. Casinomessaging systems can also present emergency safety messages.

Embodiments of the invention expand the usefulness of player trackingand casino messaging systems. Among other things, certain embodimentsallow player tracking and casino messaging systems to present multimediamessages, instead of scrolling text messages. Additionally, instead ofbeing limited to small “add-on” displays (e.g., 20 character displays,miniature LCDs, etc.), embodiments allow player tracking and casinomessaging systems to present the multi-media messages on the wageringgame machines' primary displays, secondary displays, and/or audiopresentation units. Furthermore, embodiments allow wagering gamemachines to present the responsible gaming messages without any furthermodification or inspection by gaming authorities.

While the discussion above presented exemplary hardware and an exemplaryoperating environment, the discussion below presents an exemplary systemarchitecture, according to embodiments of the invention.

Exemplary System Architecture

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a wagering game machine includinga media switcher, according to exemplary embodiments of the invention.As shown in FIG. 4, the wagering game machine 400 includes a gamingmodule 402 connected to a media switcher 404. The media switcher 404 isconnected to an external signal receiver 410, audio presentation unit414, primary display unit 406, and secondary display unit 408.

The audio presentation unit 414 can include audio speakers and anysuitable components for processing and/or presenting audio signals.

The primary and secondary display devices 406 and 408 can be any displaydevices for visually conveying information to game players. For example,the primary and secondary display devices 406 and 408 can be cathode raytube (CRT) displays, plasma displays, liquid crystal displays (LCD),digital micromirror device (DMD or DLP) displays, reels, or any othertypes of displays. The primary and secondary display devices 406 and 408present images, which can include computer-generated graphics,prerecorded video images, and any other suitable media content.

The gaming module 402 can conduct wagering games, such as slots, videopoker, or any other suitable wagering game. In one embodiment, thegaming module can include a processor and other hardware for conductinga wagering game. In another embodiment, the gaming module 402 can besoftware and/or firmware running on a processor (not shown). In additionto performing tasks related to wagering games, the processor can performtasks for wide-area progressive jackpot systems, player trackingsystems, player messaging systems, etc.

The external signal receiver 410 can receive an external data signal 412from a source external to the wagering game machine 400. The externalsignal receiver 410 transmits the external data signal 412 to the mediaswitcher 404. The external data signal 412 can include informationreceived from various casino systems (e.g., wide-area progressivejackpot systems, player tracking systems, and casino messaging systems).

In one embodiment, the external data signal 412 can include mediacontent and/or control data. Media content can include presentable audioand/or video content, while control data can specify operations to beperformed by the gaming module 402, media switcher 404, or othercomponent of the wagering game machine 400. In one embodiment, controldata of the external data signal 412 instructs the media switcher 404 topresent predetermined media stored on a gaming machine 400. In oneembodiment, the external data signal 412 can instruct the gaming module402 to present a random award to a player.

The media switcher 404 transmits media signals to the audio presentationunit 414, primary display device 406, and secondary display device 408.In some embodiments, the media switcher 404 is controlled by the gamingmodule 402, while in other embodiments the media switcher 404 can becontrolled by externally provided signals (e.g., control data in theexternal data signal 412) or presets. The media switcher 404 can processany suitable media signals and transmission formations. For example, themedia signals and transmission formations can include NTSC RF signals,Firewire or IEEE 1394 video, composite, component (YUV or YprPb), DVI(including DVI-HDMI and HDCP), serial digital interface (SDI), ands-video.

According to some embodiments, the components of the wagering gamemachine 400 can include machine readable media including instructionsfor performing operations described herein. Machine-readable mediaincludes any mechanism that provides (i.e., stores and/or transmits)information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). Forexample, a machine-readable medium includes read only memory (ROM),random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media, optical storagemedia, flash memory devices, electrical, optical, acoustical or otherforms of propagated signals (e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals,digital signals, etc.). According to embodiments of the invention, thewagering game machine 400 can include other types of logic (e.g.,digital logic) for executing the operations described herein.

System Operations

This section describes operations performed by embodiments of theinvention. In certain embodiments, the operations are performed byinstructions included on machine-readable media (e.g., software), whilein other embodiments, the methods are performed by hardware, firmware,or other logic (e.g., digital logic). In this section, FIGS. 5-7 will bediscussed. In particular, FIG. 5 describes operations for conducting awagering game and transmitting wagering game media to a media switcher,while FIG. 6 describes operations for presenting media using a mediaswitcher. FIG. 7 shows an exemplary media presentation, according toembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating operations for conducting awagering game and transmitting wagering game media to a media switcher,according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. The flow diagram500 will be described with reference to the exemplary system shown inFIG. 4. The flow diagram 500 commences at block 502.

At block 502, wagering value is received. For example, the wagering gamemachine 400 receives monetary value through a coin slot or bill acceptor(see FIG. 2). The gaming module 402 receives notice that the wageringvalue has been received. The flow continues at block 504.

At block 504, a game initiation request is received. For example, aplayer activates a “play” button and the gaming module 402 receives agame initiation request. The flow continues at block 506.

At block 506, a wagering game is initiated. For example, the gamingmodule 402 initiates a wagering game, such as slots, video poker, etc.The flow continues at block 508.

At block 508, an internal media request is transmitted. For example, inorder to present an initial media sequence, the gaming module 402transmits an internal media request to the media switcher 404. In oneembodiment, an internal media request originates from a component insidethe wagering game machine 400. Internal media requests can include or beassociated with media content related to a wagering game (e.g., mediacontent representing spinning reels of a video slots game). According toembodiments, the internal media request can include prerecorded audioand video content, animation content, or other suitable media content.The flow continues at block 510.

At block 510, a determination is made about whether there is additionalplayer input. For example, the gaming module 402 determines whether thewagering game requires additional player input. If no additional playerinput will be received, the flow continues at block 514. Otherwise, theflow continues at block 512.

At block 512, additional player input is received and processed. Forexample, the gaming module 402 receives additional player input via thewagering game machine's player input buttons (see FIG. 2). The flowcontinues at block 510.

At block 514, the wagering game is conducted and any additional internalmedia requests are transmitted. For example, the gaming module 402conducts the wagering game. The gaming module 402 also transmits anyadditional internal media requests to the media switcher 404. From block514, the flow ends.

While FIG. 5 describes operations for transmitting wagering game mediato a media switcher, FIG. 6 describes presenting media using a mediaswitcher.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating operations for presenting mediausing a media switcher, according to exemplary embodiments of theinvention. The flow diagram 600 will be described with reference to theexemplary system shown in FIG. 4. The flow diagram 600 commences atblocks 602 and 604. According to embodiments, the operations at blocks602 and 604 may be performed in parallel.

At block 602, an internal media request is received. For example, mediaswitcher 404 receives an internal media request from the gaming module402. The flow continues at block 606.

At block 604, an external data signal is received. For example, themedia switcher 404 receives an external data signal from the externaldata signal receiver 410. In one embodiment, the external data signalreceiver 410 received the external data signal 412 from a sourceexternal to the wagering game machine 400. The flow continues at block606.

At block 606, media content is prepared based on the internal requestand/or the external signal. For example, the media switcher 404 preparesmedia content received as part of the request/signal. The mediapreparation can include fetching locally stored media content that isselected by the request/signal. The media preparation can also includeprocessing media content included in the request/signal. Processingmedia content can also include converting or transcoding video signalswithin the video switcher 404 or within another component of thewagering game machine 400. Because some embodiments of the videoswitcher 404 can process video signals of varying formats, converting ortranscoding one signal format to another may include conversion betweencolor spaces, conversion between analog and digital, scaling,resampling, or deinterlacing some video signals. The flow continues atblock 608.

At block 608, the media content is prioritized, if necessary. Forexample, the media switcher 404 determines an order in which it willpresent the media content. In one embodiment, the media switcher 404 candelay media content derived from the external data signal to avoidinterrupting media content related to the wagering game. Additionally,the media switcher 404 can delay internally requested media contentbased on higher priority external media content. As part of prioritizingthe media content, the media switcher 404 can interleave content fromthe external signal with internal content. The flow continues at block610.

At block 610, the media content is presented. For example, the mediaswitcher 404 presents the media content on the audio presentation unit414, primary display device 406, and/or secondary display device 408.FIG. 7 helps to illustrate how the media switcher 404 can present mediacontent on a wagering game machine.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a presentation of internally andexternally requested media content, according to exemplary embodimentsof the invention. As shown in FIG. 7, the media switcher 404 cansimultaneously present both internally and externally requested mediacontent. In particular, the media switcher 404 can present video reels703 and a credit indicator 704, which constitute internally requestedmedia content (e.g., content that is based on operations performed bythe gaming module 402). At the same time, the media switcher 404 canpresent a progressive jackpot amount 702, which constitutes externallyrequested media content (e.g., content based on the external data signal412).

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the media switcher 404 presents theinternally and externally derived media content in a picture-in-pictureformat. Other embodiments call for other suitable formats, such ascascaded images, tiled images, etc. The media switcher 404 can alsopresent audio content along with the video content. For example, themedia switcher 404 can present prerecorded or streaming audiocontemporaneously with the picture-in-picture video described above.

Referring back to the discussion of FIG. 6, when the media switcher 404presents media, it may switch between presenting media based on theexternal data signal 412 and internally derived media. In oneembodiment, the switching between media results from the prioritizationperformed at block 608. The flow continues at block 612.

At block 612, a determination is made about whether there are morerequests/signals. For example, the media switcher 404 determines whetherthere are additional requests/signals to process. If there areadditional requests/signals, the flow continues at blocks 602 and 604.Otherwise, the flow ends.

Exemplary Implementation

In this section, exemplary implementation details of some embodimentswill be described. While this section describes some exemplaryimplementation details, it is not an exhaustive list. In this section,FIGS. 8 and 9 describe implementations configured for receiving anexternal data signal from a cluster controller.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a wagering game machineconfigured for receiving external data signals from a clustercontroller, according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. Asshown in FIG. 8, the wagering game machine 801 includes a gaming module802, which is connected to an external signal receiver 810. The externalsignal receiver 810 is connected to an external communication network812. The network 812 is connected to a cluster controller 814. Asdescribed above in the discussion of FIG. 1, the cluster controller canbe part of the wide-area progressive system, player tracking system,casino messaging system, and/or other system designed to work with thewagering game machine 801.

In the implementation shown in FIG. 8, instead employing a single mediaswitcher, the wagering game machine 801 includes a video switcher 818and an audio switcher 804. The video switcher 818 and audio switcher 804are connected to the gaming module 802. The audio switcher 804 isconnected to an audio presentation unit 816, while the video switcher818 is connected to a primary display device 806 and a secondary displaydevice 808. In one embodiment, the video switcher 818 can be a TVoneUniversal Video Scaler Model C2-775.

According to embodiments, the wagering game machine 801 can performoperations similar to those described in FIGS. 5 and 6. The gamingmodule 802 transmits audio content requests to the audio switcher 804and video content requests to the video switcher 818. The audio switcher804 presents audio content on the audio presentation unit 816, whereasthe video switcher 818 presents video content on the primary andsecondary display units 806 and 808.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a wagering game machine includinga cluster interface module for receiving external data signals,according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. In FIG. 9, thewagering game machine 400 of FIG. 4 includes one additional component.In particular, the wagering game machine 400 is adapted to include acluster interface module 902 connected to the media switcher 404,primary display device 406 and secondary display device 408. The clusterinterface module 902 can receive a cluster controller signal 904. Thecluster controller signal can include media content and/or controlsignals. The control signals can include commands directing the mediaswitcher 404 to present media stored on the gaming machine 400. Theoperations of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 9 are similar to thoseshown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

In one embodiment, the primary display device 406 and/or secondarydisplay device 408 are touch screen input devices. In one embodiment,the cluster interface module 902 can snoop input received on the touchscreens and determine whether the input is intended for player tackingor casino messaging systems. If the input is intended for the playertracking, casino messaging systems, or other system, the clusterinterface forwards the input to the appropriate system. As a result, thewagering game machine 400 can provide two-way communications betweenitself and external systems. Moreover, the wagering game machine canprovide the two-way communications without any additional input/outputdevices.

In another exemplary embodiment, a computerized wagering game system hasa gaming module comprising a processor and gaming code which is operablewhen executed on the processor to conduct a wagering game on whichmonetary value can be wagered, and a display coupled to the gamingmodule via a video switcher and operable to display information relatedto the wagering game. The video switcher is operable to receive anexternal video signal from a video source external to the wagering gamesystem, and is further operable to control presentation of the externalvideo signal and the wagering game information on the display.

FIG. 10 illustrates a computerized wagering game machine, as may be usedin an embodiment of the invention described herein. The computerizedgaming system shown generally at 10 is a video gaming system, whichdisplays information for at least one wagering game upon which monetaryvalue can be wagered on video display 11. Alternate embodiments of theinvention will have other game indicators, such as mechanical reelsinstead of the video graphics reels 12. The game of chance is played andcontrolled with various buttons 13, and in some embodiments also with apull arm 14 to initiate reel spin. Value is wagered on the games, suchas with tokens, coins, bills, or cards that hold value. The wageredvalue is conveyed to the machine through a changer 15 or a secure useridentification module interface 16, and winnings are returned via thereturned value card or through the coin tray 17. Sound is also providedthrough speakers 18, and video from an external video source is providedvia external video interface 19.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example embodiment of a wagering game employing avideo switcher, consistent with an example embodiment of the presentinvention. The computerized wagering game machine 21 includes a gamingmodule 22 that conducts a wagering game. In various embodiments, thewagering game is a reel slot machine, video poker, or another wageringgame upon which a game player can wager monetary value. The gamingmodule receives input through user interfaces such as buttons 13 andpull arm 14, which are used to conduct game play. The current state ofthe game and other game-related information is conveyed to the gameplayer via a display 23.

The display is in various embodiments of the invention any type ofdisplay operable to visually convey information to the game player,including a cathode ray tube or CRT display, a plasma display, a liquidcrystal display (LCD), a digital micromirror device (DMD or DLP)display, or any other type of display. The display receives a videosignal from the gaming module via video switch 24, and visually displaysthe video data contained in the video signal. The video signal invarious embodiments comprises information including computer-generatedgraphics, prerecorded video images, and other such visual information.

Video switch 24 is also connected to an external video input 25, whichis operable to receive a video signal from a source external to thecomputerized wagering game 21. The video switch 24 is operable tocontrol presentation of both the video signal received through theexternal video switch 24 and the gaming module 22. In some embodiments,the video switch is operated under control of the gaming module 22,while in other embodiments the video switch is controlled by anotherelement such as an externally provided signal or presets.

One example of such a system is a cluster of progressive slot machinesin which the manufacturers vary or which contains gaming machines notmanufactured by the company assembling the progressive slot cluster. Thevideo switch is installed in the wagering game such that the externalvideo input signal is displayed along with the video signal providedfrom the gaming module, but the functionality to control or configurethe video switch will not be built in to the gaming module. The videoswitch therefore displays the information received via the externalvideo input in either a window, such as via a picture-in picturepresentation, or alternating with the video signal from the gamingmodule.

FIG. 12 shows an example of a progressive slot machine game utilizingthe video switch to display both gaming module video information andinformation from the external video input. The video display screen 31corresponds to the video display 11 of FIG. 10, and is used to presentinformation related to the wagering game. Five slot reels are shown at32, and spin in response to a game player's initiation of a reel spinwhile playing the slot machine wagering game. The number of credits ordollar value the game player has accumulated are shown at 33, and changein response to wagers placed and games played that are won. Both theslot reels 32 and the credits or monetary value indicator 33 aregenerated by the computerized wagering game system, and are displayedvia the video switch 24 from a signal generated within the gaming module22.

A progressive jackpot indicator is shown at 34, and is presented in awindow in the video display. The progressive jackpot indicator window isalso known as picture-in-picture, as one image is presented withinanother image. The progressive jackpot indicator in this examplereflects accumulated deposits wagered from multiple slot machinesgrouped together in a progressive jackpot cluster, so that a relativelylarge jackpot may accumulate and add to interest in playing theprogressive games. Typically, the payback percentage remains similar tothat of traditional slot machines, so the larger the number of activeslot machine wagering games in the progressive jackpot group the morequickly the progressive jackpot will grow. Pooling large numbers ofprogressive slot machines also requires each machine to make a smallercontribution to the progressive jackpot to reach a certain level, sopayout for other jackpots and winning reel combinations can be sethigher.

Because it is beneficial to pool a relatively large number of slotmachine wagering games together in a progressive pool, casino owners andwagering game manufacturers typically try to assemble enough machines toensure that everyone who wants to play for a progressive jackpot duringpeak hours is able to find a wagering game machine to play. Thissometimes involves use of multiple types of slot machines, or even ofmultiple brands of slot machines from different manufacturers. In suchcases, the ability to receive a progressive jackpot from a centralprogressive slot machine controller may not be built in to the slotmachine wagering game.

The example embodiment of FIG. 12 addresses this problem by receivingthe picture-in-picture progressive jackpot data shown at 34 from anexternal video source, through an external video input such as 25 ofFIG. 11. The video switch 24 receives both the traditional signal fromthe gaming module including the slot reels and the credits or monetaryvalue counter, and the external video signal from the progressivecluster game controller, and formats the two signals as shown in FIG.12.

Other embodiments of the invention include the ability to control thevideo switch from the gaming module 22 or from a remote system such as aprogressive slot cluster controller, and will be operable to vary whichsignal is shown on the display or how the video signals are combined fordisplay. Further embodiments of the invention utilize two displays, suchas a primary display and a game top-box, such that the video switchcontrols presentation of supplemental wagering game information from thegaming module and external video via the video switch for presentationon the top-box or second display.

The inputs and outputs of the video switch will vary in differentembodiments of the invention to include any suitable image, graphic, orvideo format, and any appropriate means for transmission. It is furtheranticipated that the video formats handled by the switcher, displayed bythe display device, and generated by the gaming module or external videoinput may not be the same in many environments, and will requireconversion or transcoding within the video switch or within anotherdevice between generation and display. Examples of suitable videosignals and transmission formats include NTSC RF signals, Firewire orIEEE 1394 video, composite, component (YUV or YprPb), DVI (includingDVI-HDMI and HDCP), SDI or serial digital interface, and s-video.Because some embodiments of the invention will handle video signals ofvarying formats, conversion or transcoding one signal format to anotherwill also include conversion between color spaces, conversion betweenanalog and digital, and scaling, resampling, or deinterlacing some videosignals.

The example embodiments of the invention described above show how avideo switch employed in a computerized wagering game machine can beused to selectively display data from the wagering game machine and froman external video source. However, sometimes sending a video signal toeach machine will not be the preferred method of distributing video orgraphic data to wagering game machines.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example embodiment of a computerized wageringgame machine 40 having a display 41, a video switch 42, and a gamingmodule 43. These elements function as before, so that the gaming module43 generates a video signal that is routed through the video switch 42to the display 41. The video switch is still operable to selectivelydisplay video from one or more inputs on the display. In this exampleembodiment, the video switch is also coupled to a data interface 44,which is operable to receive data over a link to a cluster controller 45or other such remote data source. The data is then rendered as a videosignal in the data interface 44, and is provided as a video signal tovideo switch 42. The video switch can therefore operate in the same wayas the video switch of FIG. 12, including displaying either one videosignal or the other, or displaying them at the same time viapicture-in-picture, split screen, or another video configuration.

Extending the progressive slot example presented earlier to theapparatus of FIG. 13, the cluster controller 45 controls coordination ofthe progressive slot game among a cluster of slot machine wagering gamesystems. The cluster controller sends a digital signal via a link to thedata interface of one or more computerized wagering game systems 40, andthe data interface 44 receives the digital signal and converts it to avideo or graphic representation of the data contained therein. Forexample, the progressive slot jackpot total is sent as a digitalrepresentation of the dollar value of the jackpot to the data interface,which in response renders the received value data as a dollar sign andnumbers suitable for display on the display device 41. The video switch42 is then responsive to control signals from either the gaming module43 or from the cluster controller 45, to selectively display thegraphically rendered jackpot amount as video on display 41.

FIG. 14 is a further example of a computerized wagering game having adata interface and a video switch, further comprising a separate videoinput module. Display 51, video switch 52, and gaming module 53 functionas before, while a video input module 54 receives one or more videosignals and selectively routes them to the video switch 52. The videoinput module is coupled to an external video link 56, over which thevideo input module is operable to receive a video or graphic signal. Thevideo input module is also coupled to a cluster data interface module55, which is in turn operable to receive data from an external datasource such as a cluster controller via data link 57. In someembodiments, the video input module is operable to selectively routevideo signals to the video switch, while in other embodiments itforwards each received signal to the switch as a separate video signal.The video input module will in some embodiments also do transcoding toconvert video signals from one format to another, and will output avideo format specific to the video switch's inputs.

The cluster data interface module 55 operates as the data interface 44of FIG. 14, in that it is operable to receive a data signal and renderreceived data as video or graphics. This rendered video signal is thenrouted through the video input module as is shown in FIG. 14, or inalternate embodiments is coupled directly to the video switch 52. Instill further embodiments, the video switch is coupled to one or moreadditional displays, and is operable to control which incoming videosignals are routed to which displays.

These configurations allow a greater amount of flexibility in receivingdata and in displaying data on one or more displays in the computerizedwagering game system. Consider as a more complex example a system with amain display and a second display in a set top box. A progressive slotmachine operates in coordination with a cluster controller, and the gameis displayed on the main display along with a progressive jackpot dollaramount provided as a data signal via a data interface to the clustercontroller. The cluster controller data interface converts the datasignal to a video signal, which is inserted into a picture-in-pictureview of the wagering game via the video switch. A video input modulealso receives video comprising promotional material relating to otheractivities at the wagering game facility, which is routed via the videoswitch to the second monitor on the set top box when the set top boxdisplay is not being used to display information important to thewagering game.

General

In this description, numerous specific details are set forth. However,it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practicedwithout these specific details. In other instances, well-known circuits,structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not toobscure the understanding of this description. Note that in thisdescription, references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” mean thatthe feature being referred to is included in at least one embodiment ofthe invention. Further, separate references to “one embodiment” in thisdescription do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment; however,neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive, unless so stated andexcept as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart. Thus, the present invention can include any variety of combinationsand/or integrations of the embodiments described herein. Each claim, asmay be amended, constitutes an embodiment of the invention, incorporatedby reference into the detailed description. Moreover, in thisdescription, the phrase “exemplary embodiment” means that the embodimentbeing referred to serves as an example or illustration.

Herein, block diagrams illustrate exemplary embodiments of theinvention. Also herein, flow diagrams illustrate operations of theexemplary embodiments of the invention. The operations of the flowdiagrams are described with reference to the exemplary embodiments shownin the block diagrams. However, it should be understood that theoperations of the flow diagrams could be performed by embodiments of theinvention other than those discussed with reference to the blockdiagrams, and embodiments discussed with references to the blockdiagrams could perform operations different than those discussed withreference to the flow diagrams. Additionally, some embodiments may notperform all the operations shown in a flow diagram. Moreover, it shouldbe understood that although the flow diagrams depict serial operations,certain embodiments could perform certain of those operations inparallel.

These examples illustrate how a computerized wagering game with a videoswitch can function to display both video information from a wageringgame as well as to display information provided via an externalinterface. Although specific embodiments have been illustrated anddescribed herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill inthe art that any arrangement which is calculated to achieve the samepurpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. Thisapplication is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of theinvention. It is intended that this invention be limited only by theclaims, and the full scope of equivalents thereof.

1. A method for presenting media in a wagering game machine comprising:receiving an internal media request to select a first media content, theinternal media request originating from a gaming module within thewagering game machine; receiving an external data signal from outsidethe wagering game machine via a wagering game network, the external datasignal associated with an external media request to select a secondmedia content; determining a priority of the internal media request toselect the first media content and a priority of the external mediarequest to select the second media content; preparing media includingone or both of the first media content and the second media contentbased on the internal media request, the external media request, and thepriority of the internal media request and the priority of the externalmedia request; and presenting the media on one or more mediapresentation devices.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:receiving player input through an input device; determining whether theplayer input is for an external system; and if the player input is foran external system, transmitting the input to the external system. 3.The method of claim 1, wherein the priority of the internal mediarequest is based on events of a wagering game conducted by the wageringgame machine.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the external data signalincludes an instruction to present predetermined media stored on thewagering game machine.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the externaldata signal includes media content.
 6. The method of claim 1, whereinthe external data signal is received from a wide-area progressive gamesystem, a player tracking system, or a casino messaging system.
 7. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the media includes audio content or videocontent.
 8. A wagering game machine comprising: one or more processors;one or more media presentation devices; and a gaming module executableby the one or more processors and configured to conduct a wagering gameon which monetary value can be wagered; wherein the one or moreprocessors are further configured to: receive an internal media requestto select a first media content, the internal media request originatingfrom the gaming module; receive an external data signal from outside thewagering game machine via a wagering game network, the external datasignal associated with an external media request to select a secondmedia content; determine a priority of the internal media request toselect the first media content and a priority of the external mediarequest to select the second media content; prepare media including oneor both of the first media content and the second media content based onthe internal media request, the external media request, and the priorityof the internal media request and the priority of the external mediarequest; and present the media on the one or more media presentationdevices.
 9. The wagering game machine of claim 8, further comprising aninput device to receive player input and wherein the one or moreprocessors are configured to: determine whether the player input is foran external system; and upon determining that the player input is for anexternal system, transmit the input to the external system.
 10. Thewagering game machine of claim 8, wherein the one or more processorsdetermine the priority of the internal media request based on events ofthe wagering game conducted by the wagering game machine.
 11. Thewagering game machine of claim 8, wherein the external data signalincludes an instruction to present predetermined media stored on thewagering game machine.
 12. The wagering game machine of claim 8, whereinthe external data signal includes media content.
 13. The wagering gamemachine of claim 8, wherein the external data signal is received from awide-area progressive game system, a player tracking system, or a casinomessaging system.
 14. The wagering game machine of claim 8, wherein themedia includes audio content or video content.
 15. A non-transitorymachine-readable storage medium having stored thereon instructions thatwhen executed by one or more processors cause the one or more processorsto execute operations comprising: receiving an internal media request toselect a first media content, the internal media request originatingfrom a gaming module within the wagering game machine; receiving anexternal data signal from outside the wagering game machine via awagering game network, the external data signal associated with anexternal media request to select a second media content; determining apriority of the internal media request to select the first media contentand a priority of the external media request to select the second mediacontent; preparing media including one or both of the first mediacontent and the second media content based on the internal mediarequest, the external media request, and the priority of the internalmedia request and the priority of the external media request; andpresenting the media on one or more media presentation devices.
 16. Thenon-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein theoperations further comprise: receiving player input through an inputdevice; determining whether the player input is for an external system;and if the player input is for an external system, transmitting theinput to the external system.
 17. The non-transitory machine-readablestorage medium of claim 15, wherein the priority of the internal mediarequest is based on events of the wagering game conducted by thewagering game machine.